Coaching Experience

When I look back, I realize I have been coaching runners since forever. Because I started running so early in life and by the time I was 20 had already four marathons under my soles, I was able to share my experience and knowledge with friends and family, who looked up to me as “the expert”. I enjoyed helping them achieve their athletic goals and by age 21 had already coached a college classmate to complete two marathons and a few other friends to complete 5, 10, and 12K local races.

Celebrating with 3 of my athletes who made podium at the Fire Hero 5K

I always enjoyed sharing my experience. During the years I didn’t run regularly, it allowed me to reminisce the good, old days. In my early thirties, we had a small workout group at the office and as the most experienced runner I always assisted whoever needed tweaking on their form, assistance on their training, or just a word of encouragement. I even designed a program for a co-worker who decided to run her first Marathon (NYC 1998), which she completed.

As I decided to get back onto the asphalt, I quickly realized that what I knew from my previous running life, no longer applied. Things had changed or evolved. A lot. So, I delved into the pursuit of the knowledge necessary to self-coach for halves and marathons. I researched the latest techniques, science, and equipment. I read multiple books, magazines, articles, and scientific papers on how things are done now and how to obtain the best results without getting injured. I listened to interviews with experts and read biographies of legendary runners. I employed the trial-and-error methods to figure out what worked better for me and figured out what didn’t and why. I learned a lot.

The coach celebrating Miami finishes with marathoners and trainees: Yolmer G, Ted S, and Jhon H.

Then I joined a couple of running groups and, not to brag but I realized I knew more than I thought. Enough that combined with my experience I could assist my teammates in their running quests. So, I was convinced to take the coaching class and got certified by the Road Runners Clubs of America (RRCA) in January 2018. In November 2020 I became one of only six running coaches in the State of Florida with the Level II certification from RRCA, the highest accreditation issued by this national entity. Since then I have helped multiple runners achieve their individual running goals.

I invite you to read my case studies and testimonies of some of my current and past pupils. Also, I invite you to drop me an email (foultips.running@gmail.com) so we can start a conversation and figure out if my experience and style are a good fit for your running goals.

Looking forward to hearing from you.